Why AI optimization is just long-tail SEO done right
LLMs still rely on search, shifting SEO from head terms to the long tail. Here’s how to use AI to uncover real customer questions and win.
Identify traffic-stealing competitors
Find untapped keyword opportunities
Create content that ranks higher
Steve Liu has been in the SEO world since 2004 in the halcyon days when a dollar—and a good title tag—went a long way. Since then, he helped pioneer SEO strategy at 1-800-Flowers.com; established SEO strategies for clients at marketing agency DDB, including ExxonMobil, Pfizer, and Hiscox Insurance; and most recently served as VP of SEO for Shutterstock and Pond5. Currently, Steve is taking a short break from the corporate world and is looking to find ways to help small businesses and entrepreneurs with their SEO. You can follow Steve on X at @SteveLiuSEO or learn more at steveliu.com.
LLMs still rely on search, shifting SEO from head terms to the long tail. Here’s how to use AI to uncover real customer questions and win.
Steve Liu | Feb 17, 2026 at 10:56 am ETAI may run the web, but conversation drives it. Build forums that boost authority and create content no algorithm can copy.
Steve Liu | Nov 10, 2025 at 9:00 am ETWhat started as a personal challenge became a glimpse into how search is changing – and how you can stay ahead of it.
Steve Liu | Aug 11, 2025 at 8:00 am ETWhat does SEO look like when AI tools become the first stop, not the last resort? A look at what’s changed – and what hasn’t.
Steve Liu | May 12, 2025 at 10:00 am ETThis deep dive uses SEO tools and data analysis to explore the claims, controversies, and facts behind political search results.
Steve Liu | Feb 10, 2025 at 8:00 am ETIs Google misattributing organic search traffic to Shopping? Learn why the new srsltid= parameter in organic listings has stirred controversy.
Steve Liu | Nov 8, 2024 at 9:00 am ETSay goodbye to repetitive stock photos. Embrace AI-generated images with tools like ChatGPT and Grok, evolving your visual content creation.
Steve Liu | Sep 13, 2024 at 10:00 am ETDiscussion boards are cool again. Find out why Google now prioritizes them and how to foster community and engagement on your niche website.
Steve Liu | Jul 12, 2024 at 9:00 am ETSee how AI is changing our quest for information, the key players in the AI wars and the attributes that will define the future of search.
Steve Liu | May 17, 2024 at 9:00 am ETAs generative AI grows, how will users' search behaviors change and what does it mean for optimizing content?
Steve Liu | Apr 30, 2024 at 9:00 am ET